Top Texas LB Looking at Tide

Tom Culpepper

08/19/2001

Being the fastest player on a team loaded with good "team speed" is an accomplishment in itself. However, the impact of the impression can rise to a completely different level when you consider the size of the player. Marvin Byrdsong, a linebacker from Longview, Texas, is his team's fastest player and he stands 6 feet 3 inches tall and tips the scales at 240 pounds.

"Marvin is the fastest player on our team and he also has a great vertical leap," said Longview High School Head Coach Pat Collins. "He's very instinctive and he can chase people down. Marvin is a good kid and he's really something special on the football field."

Byrdsong broke his hand during his junior season and the injury required a plate and five screws to heal. In only four games, Byrdsong tallied 60 tackles, six sacks, two fumbles recovered, and one blocked punt.

Despite the injury last season, Byrdsong has already received an impressive list of scholarship offers from Division 1-A programs. Alabama, Arkansas, Mississippi State, Tennessee, Texas, and Texas A&M are only a sampling of the list.

Byrdsong's brother, Shawn, will be a senior at Mississippi State. Still, Byrdsong says he is open to the process and his brother's career in the Southeastern Conference is what gave him exposure to the Crimson Tide.

"I'm open right now and I plan on waiting until after the season to reach my decision," said Byrdsong. "I'm looking at Texas and (Texas) A&M instate but I'm also looking at some SEC teams like Mississippi State, Alabama, Tennessee, and Arkansas. I watched Alabama when they played Mississippi State."

Byrdsong is looking for a few things to help him feel comfortable with his future college choice.

"I'm looking for a good football team, a place that reminds me of home, and how I bond with the coaches and players," Byrdsong said.

Editor's Note: There are many factors which could impact the recruitment of a prospect.